18 Ways to Go Eco-Friendly on a Budget ...

We’ve all heard the benefits of keeping the house a little cooler during the winter and warmer during the summer. It’s such a great way to be eco-friendly on a budget that it needs repeating. Keep the heat at 68 degrees F or lower during the winter and keep the air at 78 degrees F or higher during the summer.

The coils on the back of your fridge are used to keep the unit cold. If they are covered in dust they have to work harder. Be sure to wipe them down every couple of months.

It’s always a good idea to ride with a buddy or take public transit when possible. It’s also a great way to be eco-friendly on a budget. Save money by spending less on gas and save the planet by not adding more fumes to the air.

Have you considered canceling your newspaper subscription? You can always read the same news online and save a few trees.

There is no way of getting around needing batteries, but you can save money on your battery purchases in the long run and lessen your carbon footprint by switching to rechargeable batteries.

I’m always one to use cloth towels over paper towels, but I never really thought about using cloth napkins until recently.

I use to drive around with all kinds of extras in my trunk that I only need occasionally. Caring around the extra cargo actually weighs your car down and decreases fuel efficiency. Be eco-friendly on a budget and lighten your load.

Consider checking out yard sales and thrift stores. Buying used items helps keep things out of landfills and is a great way to save money.

A great way to be eco-friendly on a budget is to save money on cleaning products. You don’t need 101 different cleaners. Most things are easily cleaned with warm water, vinegar, and baking soda.

Check for local produce farms and farmers markets to buy your produce. They are often healthier, fresher, and cheaper.

Your kitchen is full of eco-friendly on a budget facial cleaner too. You’d be amazed at what a little bit of honey, tea bags and oatmeal can do for your skin.

Forget about bottled water. It cost too much money and the plastic bottles are bad for the environment. Instead invest in a reusable water container and a water filter for your faucet.

Eating leftover is another great way to be eco-friendly on a budget. Save time and money by using leftovers for lunch or to make into a new meal the next day. My favorite leftover is chicken. It can be used again in salads, soups, and casseroles.

Save electricity by using lamps when possible instead of bright overhead lights. Also don’t forget to replace your regular light bulbs with energy saving bulbs.

Even if you save them and use them again, the plastic bags you get at the grocery store are not biodegradable. Opt for paper when available or better yet, bring your own reusable grocery bags. Some stores will even give you a few cents back for using your own bags.

Keeping your freezer full saves energy. The unit doesn’t have to work as hard to keep the area cold. How’s that for a eco-friendly on a budget tip?

Your favorite old shirts and jeans can be upcycled into something brand new. I’ve seen jeans and shirts turned into rugs, quilts, and even refashioned for a new look.

Pass on your books and magazines to friends. This way only one book has to be purchased, yet everyone gets to benefit from it. Even better use your local library for your reading pleasures.

I hope you have found these 18 ways to go eco-friendly on a budget helpful. Please give some of them a try. If you have any of your own tips to be eco-friendly on a budget I'd love to read them.

Top Image Source: tech.dir.groups.yahoo.com